January marks the season of fresh starts and renewed commitments, where we channel our energy into achieving our New Year’s resolutions. For many, nurturing creativity takes center stage. Resolutions are easier to stick to when paired with inspiration. That’s why we’ve curated a list of resolutions for painters, complete with practical ideas to keep you actively pursuing your creative journey.
Focus on Artistic Growth
Experiment with a New Medium
Trying a new medium can breathe fresh life into your creativity. If you’re accustomed to acrylics, why not explore oils, watercolors, gouache, or mixed media? Experimenting with traditional tools can be costly, but digital painting software like Rebelle offers all these options in one place. With over 250 brush presets, medium-specific color palettes, and beautifully textured art surfaces, you can save both time and money while expanding your creative horizons. Plus, these digital tools can be reused endlessly—no need to restock art supplies!
Develop a Signature Style
A unique artistic voice sets you apart. Spend time identifying the themes, colors, or techniques that resonate with you. While digital painting lets you mimic countless styles, focusing on one that feels authentic can elevate your work. For inspiration, explore interviews with painters, illustrators, and concept artists on the Escape Motions blog.
Learn from the Masters
Deepening your understanding of art history and techniques is invaluable. Study the works of legendary artists like John Singer Sargent, J.C. Leyendecker, Frank Frazetta, or John Harris, and bring their traditional techniques to the digital canvas. Check out the Rebelle Master Series on the Escape Motions YouTube channel, where Daniel Ibanez teaches you how to blend these timeless methods into your workflow.
Focus on Skill-Building
Daily or Weekly Practice
Consistency is key. Whether you sketch for 15 minutes a day or dedicate a weekly session, regular practice strengthens your skills. Even if you’re juggling client work, make time to draw for yourself. These short, fun sessions can recharge your creativity.
Master Composition and Lighting
Improving your understanding of composition and lighting can transform your art. Use reference images or photos to practice capturing light and shadows. Dive into tips on depth and color vibrancy shared by featured artist Ivan Selnon on the Rebelle blog to further refine your techniques.
Enhance Drawing Skills
Foundation skills like anatomy, perspective, and still-life drawing are the backbone of any artist’s work. Tools like Rebelle’s rulers, perspective, and ellipse features simplify the process, helping you create more dynamic compositions. For additional guidance, explore Carles Carbonell Bernado’s insights on perspective.
Focus on Projects and Challenges
Start a Series
Showcase your growth by creating a series around a specific theme or subject. Use Rebelle’s time-lapse recording feature to capture your process, then share it with fellow artists for feedback. Revisiting these pieces over time is a great way to celebrate your progress.
Participate in Art Challenges
Art challenges are an excellent way to push your limits and connect with the creative community. Escape Motions hosts various challenges throughout the year, such as the current Whimsical Winterworks. Other popular events include Inktober and the prestigious World Illustration Awards 2025, proudly sponsored by Escape Motions.
Share Your Work Regularly
Building an online portfolio can open doors to new opportunities. Upload your work to the Escape Motions gallery, social media platforms, or your website. Regularly sharing your creations not only builds your presence but also inspires and motivates others.
Personal Growth
Embrace Mistakes
Mistakes are part of the journey. Seek constructive feedback to identify areas for improvement and view errors as stepping stones rather than setbacks. This mindset fosters resilience and growth.
Practice Mindful Painting
Not every piece needs to be a masterpiece. Enjoy the creative process for its own sake—experiment, learn, and grow without the pressure of perfection. Sometimes the greatest rewards come from trying something entirely new.
Teach or Mentor
Digital painting is still evolving, and many artists face challenges transitioning to this medium. Share your knowledge by mentoring beginners, offering courses, or hosting live streams. If you’re looking to learn from others, explore Rebelle’s courses led by seasoned digital painters.
2025 - Your Creative Year Awaits
Every painter’s journey is unique, but the start of a new year offers the perfect opportunity to set goals that inspire growth, creativity, and joy. Whether you’re embracing new techniques, tackling art challenges, or sharing your work, the key is to stay curious and passionate.
Which of these resolutions resonates with you? Share your thoughts, experiences, or any resolutions of your own in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you and continue the conversation. Here’s to a year of boundless creativity and artistic success!
Happy Painting,
Escape Motions Team
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Title Image Credits: Rebelle Featured Artist David K. Manuel
